India's Rishabh Pant exits field after injuring right knee in Test against NZ

India's wicket-keeper Rishabh Pant suffered a setback after being hit on his right knee, which forced him to leave the field during the second day of the Bengaluru Test against New Zealand.

The incident occurred in the 37th over of New Zealand's innings when a ball from Ravindra Jadeja sharply turned and struck Pant on his knee, the same leg where he recently underwent surgery.

Limping off the field with assistance, Pant was replaced behind the stumps by Dhruv Jurel for the rest of the day.

Pant's injury comes after his recovery from a serious road accident in December 2022, which led to surgery earlier this year.

This latest blow has resulted in swelling on his knee, raising concerns about his availability. The Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) confirmed that Pant would not be keeping wickets on Day 3, as the medical team monitors his condition.

At the end of Day 2, India captain Rohit Sharma explained that Pant’s injury was a precautionary measure due to the swelling on his previously operated knee. Sharma expressed hope that Pant would recover quickly.

India already faces injury challenges with Shubman Gill sidelined due to neck stiffness. Pant’s injury could further strain the team, especially after they were bowled out for 46 in the first innings.